Your stay — Catarata Celeste Lodge
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The Property — Catarata Celeste Lodge
Catarata Celeste Lodge is a laid-back, family-run hotel in Upala, Costa Rica, with a rustic-chic aesthetic that reflects its surroundings. Its intimate scale and verdant gardens make it a soothing retreat for those seeking relaxation. The lodge's USP lies in its proximity to the nearby Catarata Celeste waterfall, a breathtaking natural wonder. Standing in the lobby, you'll be enveloped by the sounds of tropical birdsong and the gentle rustle of palms. The lodge is ideal for couples and solo travellers looking for a peaceful getaway.
Chronicles of Upala
Upala, a small town in northern Costa Rica, has its roots in the indigenous Cabécar people, who inhabited the region for centuries. The town's architecture is a blend of traditional Costa Rican and Spanish colonial styles, with many buildings dating back to the 19th century. In the 20th century, Upala's economy shifted towards agriculture, with coffee and cattle becoming major industries. Today, the town is a hub for eco-tourism, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town's warm, welcoming atmosphere is a testament to its strong community spirit.
Best Time to Visit
Full Upala guide →Best months
The best months to visit Upala are February and March, when the weather is dry and mild, with average highs of 77°F (25°C). These months offer the perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.
Peak / festival surge
June is the peak month in Upala, as it coincides with the Fiestas de la Cruz, a vibrant celebration of Costa Rican culture. Expect larger crowds and higher prices, especially at the Catarata Celeste Lodge. The festivities attract visitors from across the country, and hotel prices may increase by 20-30% during this time.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder months of April and May offer the best value for budget-conscious travellers. The weather is still pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices, making it an ideal time to explore Upala's natural attractions without breaking the bank.
Weather & packing
Upala's climate is characterized by two distinct seasons: a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November. Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the dry season, and consider bringing a waterproof jacket for the occasional rain showers.
Live City Briefing — Upala
- The new Upala bus terminal is now open, offering improved transportation connections to nearby towns and cities. The town's central park has undergone renovations, featuring a new children's play area and picnic facilities. The nearby Catarata Celeste waterfall is now open for guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding rainforest and learn about the local ecosystem.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Catarata Celeste Lodge, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on the second or third floor, as they are likely to have better views of the surrounding hills and forest, and are farther away from potential street noise in Upala. The hotel's 3-star rating suggests a more modern build, so the concrete floors are likely to be relatively quiet and even.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms near the service entrance or lift, as these areas may be prone to noise from staff and the occasional guest. Additionally, rooms near the road may be noisier due to the hotel's location in Upala, which may have traffic or pedestrian activity.
Best views
Rooms on the second or third floor offer views of the surrounding hills and forest, while rooms on the first floor may have views of the hotel's garden or parking area.
Quietest floors
2nd-3rd floors
🔊 Noise notes
Upala is a rural town, so noise levels are generally low. However, the hotel's location on a main road may mean some traffic noise, especially during rush hour or when there are events at the nearby town hall.
Insider tips
1. Ask for a room with a private balcony for a more peaceful experience and to take in the views. 2. Take advantage of the hotel's free parking, but be aware that spaces may be limited, so it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Catarata Celeste Lodge
free throughout the property, 50 Mbps speed, no login constraints
serves all floors, no historic sections
complimentary digital newsstand through PressReader
14:00-22:00, early bag-drop available from 10:00, ₡10,000 late check-out fee after 12:00
available for guests, ₡2,000 per day
step-free access, wheelchair accessible rooms and public areas, no structural limitations
on-site parking available, ₡8,000 per night, nearest public car park is 500m away, ₡5,000 per day, no EV charging
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: ₡3,500 per person per night
Deposit & card hold: ₡50,000 cash deposit upon check-in, credit card hold for incidentals
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Costa Rican Colón, CRC
Travellers can exchange money at local banks (Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional) or casas de cambio (currency exchange offices) for a slightly better rate than at the airport or tourist bureaux. Be cautious of poor rates at tourist-oriented places.
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and debit cards are widely accepted in the Upala area, especially in tourist-oriented businesses. Contactless payments are becoming more common, but cash is still preferred at local markets and small shops.
Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service. 5-10% is standard for restaurants and bars, while 5-10 CRC is sufficient for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical breakfast or coffee can be had for around 600-800 CRC (~ $1-$1.20 USD) at a local café or bakery.
A plate of gallo pinto (rice and beans) at a local comedor (eatery) costs around 1,200-1,800 CRC (~ $2-$3 USD).
A main dish at a local restaurant can cost around 3,000-4,500 CRC (~ $5-$7 USD).
Street food is common in the town center, with vendors offering traditional dishes like empanadas, tortillas, and fresh fruit for around 500-1,000 CRC (~ $0.80-$1.50 USD).
Super Pali and Maxi Pali are common supermarket chains in the area.
Markets like the Mercado Municipal offer affordable clothing and souvenirs.
A taxi ride within the town costs around 1,000-1,500 CRC (~ $1.50-$2.50 USD), while a bus ride costs 300-500 CRC (~ $0.50-$0.80 USD). A day pass for local buses is not available, but a 30-day pass can be purchased for 10,000 CRC (~ $17 USD).
Eat at local comedors or street vendors for affordable meals.Avoid exchanging money at the airport or tourist bureaux for poor rates.Use public buses or walk/bike whenever possible to save on transportation costs.
Emergency Contacts
UpalaUpala uses the national 911 system for all emergencies. For the local Red Cross ambulance, call 2461-0135. The Fuerza Pública station in Upala: 2461-0261 (non-emergency). Rural areas may have no mobile reception; plan ahead.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Upala, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Catarata Celeste Lodge
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
San José Terminal Atlántico Norte (Calle 12) → Upala Central Bus Station
💡 The 5.5-hour ride is scenic but bumpy—sit on the left for views of Lake Arenal. Bring snacks and water; only one bathroom stop en route.
Upala Central Bus Station or town centre → La Carolina Lodge
💡 Agree on the fare upfront. Drivers know the lodge entrance but the unmarked gravel road can be missed—have the lodge's coordinates handy.
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) → La Carolina Lodge, Upala
💡 Book a 4x4 through the lodge or a local operator like Interbus—the last 12 km of gravel road are rough in wet season. Split cost with other guests if possible.
Liberia Bus Terminal (next to Mercado Municipal) → Upala Central Bus Station
💡 Buses are basic but reliable. Get off at the Upala terminal, then take a taxi (around $10-15) the remaining 8 km to La Carolina Lodge—no direct bus stops there.
About Upala
Wikipedia ↗Upala is a district of the Upala canton, in the Alajuela province of Costa Rica.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Catarata Celeste Lodge?
Request a room on the second or third floor, as they are likely to have better views of the surrounding hills and forest, and are farther away from potential street noise in Upala. The hotel's 3-star rating suggests a more modern build, so the concrete floors are likely to be relatively quiet and even.
Which rooms should I avoid at Catarata Celeste Lodge?
Avoid rooms near the service entrance or lift, as these areas may be prone to noise from staff and the occasional guest. Additionally, rooms near the road may be noisier due to the hotel's location in Upala, which may have traffic or pedestrian activity.
Is Catarata Celeste Lodge noisy?
Upala is a rural town, so noise levels are generally low. However, the hotel's location on a main road may mean some traffic noise, especially during rush hour or when there are events at the nearby town hall.
Which rooms have the best views at Catarata Celeste Lodge?
Rooms on the second or third floor offer views of the surrounding hills and forest, while rooms on the first floor may have views of the hotel's garden or parking area.
What are insider tips for staying at Catarata Celeste Lodge?
1. Ask for a room with a private balcony for a more peaceful experience and to take in the views. 2. Take advantage of the hotel's free parking, but be aware that spaces may be limited, so it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.
What time is check-in at Catarata Celeste Lodge?
Check-in at Catarata Celeste Lodge is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Catarata Celeste Lodge have Wi-Fi?
free throughout the property, 50 Mbps speed, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Catarata Celeste Lodge?
₡3,500 per person per night
Where can I eat cheaply near Catarata Celeste Lodge?
A plate of gallo pinto (rice and beans) at a local comedor (eatery) costs around 1,200-1,800 CRC (~ $2-$3 USD).
What is the cheapest way to get around from Catarata Celeste Lodge?
A taxi ride within the town costs around 1,000-1,500 CRC (~ $1.50-$2.50 USD), while a bus ride costs 300-500 CRC (~ $0.50-$0.80 USD). A day pass for local buses is not available, but a 30-day pass can be purchased for 10,000 CRC (~ $17 USD).
When is the best time to visit Upala?
The best months to visit Upala are February and March, when the weather is dry and mild, with average highs of 77°F (25°C). These months offer the perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching.
Top Attractions in Upala
💡 Come on a Friday or Saturday evening when food stalls sell grilled corn and churros. The best seat is on the bench near the church side.
💡 Park near the blue bridge on the road to Colonia Puntarenas. The best pool is 200m upstream, under a 3-metre cascade. Check water levels after heavy rain.
💡 Bring insect repellent and go early in the dry season (Jan-April) when the trail is less overgrown. The temple has no shelter if it rains.
💡 Pay the farmer directly at the gate (no credit cards). Bring coins for the lockbox. Swim at the base, but watch for rocks just below the surface.
💡 Arrive before 8am to see the river at its bluest, before afternoon clouds roll in. The 6km hike is muddy after rain, so rent boots at the entrance.